Hi,

In my chemistry class, we are doing a special stoichiometry project in which have to find out how much carbon dioxide is needed to extinguish a flame from a small candle. I was not sure of the best amount of CO2 needed for this task, so I was wondering if anyone would happen to know the best amount of CO2 needed (in mL or in L).

 

Thanks in advance!

Edited February 14, 20178 yr by tiffanyjitan

Surely this is something you have to figure out as part of your assignment?

Surely this is something you have to figure out as part of your assignment?

You're right , but unfortunately I do not quite know how to find this certain information.

Edited February 14, 20178 yr by mysteryperson

You're right , but unfortunately I do not quite know how to find this certain information.

 

I am with hypervalent_iodine on this.

It's pretty weird question for chemistry lesson, as CO₂ is just disallowing access to Oxygen present in air.

Doesn't react with fuel nor Oxygen to be able calculate moles (L/mL, or so) of reactant(s) (as there is no reaction).

One CO₂ molecule could be "reused" multiple times... as long as is needed.. it just blocks access..

 

Maybe: what is size of flame? Then what is its volume + some tolerance around it? Then calculate number of moles of CO₂ inside...

Edited February 14, 20178 yr by Sensei

It is very vague as stated. I wonder if there are some parameters we are missing. For example, are you being asked to consider a flame in a space of defined volume? Are you assuming the the CO₂ has to completely fill this volume and displace atmospheric gases? Have you been learning about ideal gas laws in class?

Or is it maybe about CO2 concentration in 'air' that will no more support burning?

If the candle is in a box, make sure you have enough CO2 to fill the box.